Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an abnormal immune system reaction to gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat and rye. It damages the small intestine so that it can't do a good job of absorbing nutrients from your food.

If you have celiac disease, you need to avoid foods that contain gluten.

Celiac disease is also known as celiac sprue, gluten-sensitive enteropathy, and nontropical sprue.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Jerry S. Trier, MD - Gastroenterology

Last Revised

October 9, 2012

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